Math110 College Algebra
4 credits
Section 1MWF1:10 - 2:00MC 420
Th1:00 - 1:50MC 420(note this time!!)
Dr. Mark Saegrove
Office MC 525Ph. 796-3657Home Phone 1-608-735-4789
CATALOG COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Review of basic algebra, second degree equations and inequalities, roots of polynomials, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations. Not applicable toward mathematics major or minor sequence. Prerequisite: acceptable score on placement exam, grade of B-minus or better in one year of high school algebra, or grade of C or higher in MATH 001.
CORE SKILL OBJECTIVES
- Thinking Skills:
A.Uses reasoned standards in solving problems and presenting arguments.
2.Communication Skills:
A.Reads with comprehension and the ability to analyze and evaluate.
B.Listens with an open mind and responds with respect.
3.Life Values:
A.Analyzes, evaluates and responds to ethical issues from an informed personal value system.
4.Cultural Skills:
A.Demonstrates knowledge of the signs and symbols of another culture.
B.Participates in activity that broadens the student’s customary way of thinking.
5.Aesthetic Skills:
A.Develops an aesthetic sensitivity.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
1.Thinking Skills:
A.Studiesbriefly the basic ideas of a first algebra course.
- Learns to solve quadratic equations by factoring, completing thsquare, and
by use of the quadratic formula.
- Improves one’s ability to read and solve application problems by means of
constructing appropriate algebraic models and then applying algebraic
techniques to find a solution.
D.Explores exponential and logarithmic functions,includingapplication problems, and the efficient and appropriate use of logarithms and their properties.
E.Learns the techniques of solving systems of equations and appropriately applying these processes to word problems.
2.Communication Skills:
- Produces both written and oral communication throughout the course;
particular attention is paid to the accurate and appropriate use of thelanguage of algebra.
- Uses technology - calculators, in some cases graphing calculators - to solve
problems and to be able to communication solutions and explore options.
3.Life Value Skills:
A. Develops an appreciation for the intellectual honesty of deductive reasoning; a mathematician’s work must stand up to the scrutiny of logic, and it is unethical to try to pass off invalid work.
B. Understands the need to do one’s own work, to honestly challenge yourself to
master the material.
4. Cultural Skills:
A.Learns to read, write and manipulate mathematical notation
B.Experiences mathematics as a culture of its own, with its own language and modes of thinking.
5.Aesthetic Skills:
A. Develops an appreciation for the austere intellectual beauty of deductive reasoning.
B. Develops an appreciation for mathematical elegance.
General Course Objectives: This course is designed to cause the student to learn traditional college algebra concepts and problem solving skills.It should serve to prepare students for Math 180, Math 230, Math 265, or Math 270.
Prerequisite: Acceptable placement score or C grade in Math 001 or equivalent (typically high school algebra). See me right away if you have a question about your math background as it relates to this requirement.
Text: College Algebra: Concepts and Models, second edition,by Larson, Hostetler, and Hodgkins. Heath. 1996.
References: There are a number of college algebra texts in my office and in the library.
Content: Review of Basic Algebra
Algebraic Equations and Inequalities
Cartesian Plane and Graphs
Functions and Graphs
Polynomial Functions
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Matrices and Determinants
Sequences (if time permits)
Grading:4exams400 pts.
daily quizzes100 pts.
comprehensive final exam100 pts.
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total600 pts.
Note: Grades are based on points allocated above. No extra credit. Typically, 90%+ is A, 80%+ is B, 70%+ is C, and 60%+ is D.
Note:Quizzes are “open book, open notes”; exams are “closed book, closed notes”.
Note: All tests taken in regular classroom at scheduled times. No exams taken in learning center unless diagnosed learning disability exists (verified by Mr. Wojeichowski in writing).
Note: Final exam must be taken at regularly scheduled time (Thursday, December 21, 7:40 - 9:40) unless approved in writing by the Dean.
Attendance: Required.See Viterbo College catalog, page 36.All guidelines followed.
A valid verifiable excuse must be presented in order to make up missed exams or quizzes.“I overslept”, “My ride is leaving early for vacation/ the weekend/ etc.”, “I had a busy week and didn’t have time to study” are examples of NON-valid excuses. Make-up exams for valid excused absences must be done in a timely manner, usually within one week of return.
Calculating Equipment: Hand-held calculators are permitted for quizzes and exams.
Cheating: First offense - zero credit on pertinent work; second offense - failure in the course.
Extra Help: If you find that you need extra help, see me right away. Tutoring can be made available from the Learning Center if necessary.
ADA Statement: If you are a person with a disability and require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations for this class, please see me and Wayne Wojciechowski, the Americans with Disabilities Act coordinator (MC320, 796-3085) within ten days to discuss your accommodation needs.
Note: accommodation for special test-taking needs will be made only after these needs are confirmed in writing by Mr. Wojciechowski.
Approximate Schedule:Weeks 1-4:Chapters P and 1.Exam 1.
Weeks 5-7:Chapters 2 and 3.Exam 2.
Weeks 8-10: Chapters 4 and 5.Exam 3.
Weeks 11-14: Chapters 6 and 7. Exam 4.
Week15:Chapter 8 and review.
Final Exam Week: Comprehensive Final Exam.